Clothes that let you bend and reach
The one real requirement is freedom to move. Look for fabric that stretches in every direction and does not hamper your arms overhead. Stretchy leggings or shorts below and a fitted tee or tank above work well.
Very loose tops tend to fall over your face when you fold forward, so something close-fitting is more practical. Test it at home: squat, fold, raise your arms. If anything slips or turns see-through, choose something else.
Fabric matters as well. Cotton with a little elastane feels pleasant on the skin, while synthetic blends dry faster and move moisture away. If you sweat easily, the second kind is more comfortable.
To begin with, the wardrobe you already own will do: an old tee and some sweatpants with a drawstring. Spend money once you know exactly what is missing.
A waistband that digs into your stomach is best swapped for a wide, soft one: in twists and folds a tight band is felt at once.
Barefoot or socks: what about your feet
Yoga is done barefoot. Bare feet feel the mat and hold you steady. Shoes stay by the door, and socks on a slippery mat are more of a hindrance than a help, so they rarely come out.
The exception is savasana in a chilly room, or if your feet simply get cold. Socks with grippy soles exist, but a beginner can do without them.
Keep bare feet clean and dry, and nails trimmed so they do not catch on the mat. If you have blisters or cuts on your soles, cover them with a plaster.
If the floor in the room is cold, come early and walk about a little so your feet warm up before class.
Choosing a mat and knowing when to buy
Start by borrowing one, since most studios lend mats. A new mat made of some materials smells of rubber for the first few days; airing it on a balcony is enough.
Once you know you are staying, pick your own, and think about these points:
- A non-slip surface, so hands and feet do not slide in the poses.
- Moderate thickness: too soft makes balance harder, too thin hurts the knees.
- Enough length for your height, so you fit when lying on your back.
- Low weight, because you will be carrying it around.
Weather, rooms and the small things that help
In warm weather bring breathable layers and a small towel for face and hands. When it is cold, a light sweater or fleece is useful: you will not need it during the warm-up, but in savasana, when your body cools, you will be glad of it.
Tie long hair back so it stays out of your face in folds. Take off bracelets and watches that dig into the wrist in weight-bearing poses. If you are unsure what is usual at a particular place, just ask the teacher.
If you go to class straight from work, bring a spare tee: changing into something dry before savasana is a real pleasure.
What to pack besides clothes
Beyond what you wear, pack a bottle of water, a small towel and a bag for damp things. Many people also carry a plaster and a hair tie. There is no need to bring more: studios normally provide everything else practice requires.
Blocks, straps and bolsters come with the room, and the teacher will show you how to use them. Any injury or pregnancy is best mentioned beforehand, and you will be offered suitable props.
Finally, ignore other people's outfits. The room holds expensive kit and old tees alike, and nobody minds: what matters is how it feels to move.